Flick wants a left-footed center-back: Barcelona studies candidates from Serie A and Bundesliga

Barcelona is gearing up for an active summer in the transfer market. Although signing a right-back is one of the top priorities, the club's management also aims to strengthen the central line of defense to broaden the options for head coach Hansi Flick.

Barcelona's sporting director Deco will be tasked with selecting players to meet the coach's needs. The primary focus will be on the positions of left winger and right-back. However, bolstering the center of defense is also on the priority list, with the club particularly interested in a left-footed central defender.

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Flick prefers to use a left-footed player in the left center-back position, which is why Iñigo Martínez often starts instead of Ronald Araújo. However, Martínez will turn 34 in May, and the club is already seeking his replacement.

Currently, Barcelona is considering two options. According to Diario AS, Deco's shortlist includes Piero Hincapié and Jhon Lucumí.

Barcelona observed Lucumí in Bologna's match against Napoli, which ended in a 1-1 draw. Additionally, in December, representatives of the Catalans held informal talks with the Colombian's agents. Nevertheless, the favorite for the left center-back position is Bayer's defender Piero Hincapié.

Last summer, Atlético showed interest in Hincapié, but the Madrid club cooled on the idea of signing him. Now, Lucumí is also being monitored by Inter, Milan, Napoli, and Roma, alongside Barcelona.

The final decision on the transfer has not yet been made, but the club understands the need to take care of the future of the defensive line in advance.